National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is April 26

ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (April 25, 2024) – In observance of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 26, Baptist Health is reminding the public about the importance of proper disposal of expired and unused prescription medications.

The initiative raises awareness about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and provides an opportunity to clear out medicine cabinets to help reduce the risk of accidental poisoning or environmental harm.

“Spring is a great time to clean out more than just closets – it’s also the perfect opportunity to check your medicine cabinets,” said Shweta Desai, PharmD, system director of community pharmacy at Baptist Health. “Unused or expired medications can lead to accidental poisonings, drug misuse or even environmental harm if not disposed of properly. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers a proactive step anyone can take to help prevent substance misuse and protect the health of our communities.”

An adverse drug event (ADE) is when someone is harmed by a medicine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 1.5 million people visit emergency departments each year for an ADE, and almost 500,000 are hospitalized.

“Prescription Drug Take Back Day is an important opportunity for all of us to take action in preventing drug misuse and overdose,” said Jamie Lane, PharmD, pharmacy director for Baptist Health Hardin. “By safely clearing out medications that are no longer needed, we can help reduce the risk of accidental use, support the fight against opioid addiction, and contribute to the well-being of our communities.”

Blood thinners, antibiotics, diabetes drugs, and pain medications are the leading cause of emergency department visits for ADEs.

Practicing safe storage and proper disposal of prescription medicines can help keep families safe and healthy.

To drop off your unused or expired medications, visit one of Baptist Health’s pharmacies, where drop off boxes are accessible during regular pharmacy hours.

• Baptist Health Hardin Community Pharmacy (inside the hospital), 913 N Dixie Ave, Elizabethtown, KY

Pharmacy Hours Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

• Baptist Health Hardin Medical Pavilion Community Pharmacy, 200 Cardinal Drive, Suite , Elizabethtown, KY

Pharmacy hours Pharmacy Hours:  Monday –Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.